Three Thanet teachers have scooped honours at an awards ceremony held this month.
The Kent Teacher of the Year Awards took place in Ashford on May 9 to recognise the outstanding dedication of school staff across the county.
Hosting the evening were Nicola Everett, a prominent voice in multimedia news and broadcasting, Rob Smith, experienced journalist, presenter and former BBC reporter with over 25 years in the industry; and Phil Gallagher, guest speaker and local legend, renowned for his work in radio, television and theatre, and best known to many as CBeebies’ Mr Maker.
For Thanet, Palm Bay Primary School specialist arts teacher Melanie Tong was awarded Primary School Teacher of the Year.
Sally Phelps, of Liberty College, won Teaching Assistant of the Year and Anna Harrison-Jones, also Liberty College, took College Lecturer of the Year
Melanie also won the overall primary teacher award.
Every year Melanie organises the Palm Bay Primary School Art Auction with artwork generously donated by Thanet artists. All proceeds go to the Palm Bay art department and funds have previously paid for a kiln and shed, a printing press, host artists, musicians and theatre companies and provided drama and music experiences for all of the pupils.
Event organisers Social Enterprise Kent said: “The Kent Teacher of the Year Awards cast a well-deserved spotlight on the vital role educators play in shaping society.
“This event is a small way of expressing our sincere thanks for the care, commitment, and hard work teachers and all school staff demonstrate every day.”
Now the 25th anniversary has passed the Kent Teacher of the Year Awards will be known as the Kent Education Awards moving forward reflecting the fact that whole school community, not just teachers are recognised.
Nominations for 2026 open on the 1st June.
